Sissoko: 'We'll Be Stronger Next Season'

By Dan King - Newcastle United Club Reporter

Moussa Sissoko has declared himself satisfied with his first six months in England - but insisted: 'You ain't seen nothing yet.'

The 23-year-old wasted no time in making an impression in the Barclays Premier League after his January arrival from Toulouse, plundering three goals in his first four league games, but missed the final two fixtures through injury.

Newcastle finished a largely disappointing campaign in 16th position but Sissoko's pace and power were crucial as the Magpies staved off the threat of relegation and he hopes to show his worth even more next season.

He will have the luxury of a full pre-season with his new team-mates while, in much the same way as he steamrollered past opposition defenders at times last term, the man from Le Blanc-Mesnil is making huge, determined strides towards overcoming the language barrier.

And, as he spoke exclusively to nufc.co.uk to assess his first campaign, Sissoko said: "I think it went well and I'm pretty happy.

"My first half-a-season here wasn't always easy; results were difficult to come by sometimes and we found ourselves in a difficult position, but our target was met.

"We stayed up, so we did that successfully. Now it's time to go away, rest up on our holidays, clear our heads and come back stronger for next season."

One of the undoubted highlights of 2012/13 was February's thrilling 3-2 St. James' Park success against a side who were, at the time, the reigning champions of Europe.

And Sissoko told the Club's official website: "The most important thing was probably my first home game, against Chelsea.

"It was a great game for the whole team but also for me. I scored a brace and I think that'll be the one thing that really sticks in my head when I think back over the last half-a-season.

"I'm pretty much happy with everything but next season I hope will be better for me, for the team, for the staff and for the whole city.

"And I'm absolutely sure it will be. Last season was a little bit difficult but in January some great players came in to strengthen the squad.

"They needed some time to bed in but we'll come back next season and we'll all be ready together. We can go much higher up the league than we did last season."

Click here to buy a new Newcastle United change shirt with Sissoko's name and number on the back